As an international student, you may need to renew your visa, study permit, or work permit to continue studying, working, or staying in Canada after graduation.
The International Student Centre (ISC) offers guidance through one-on-one advising and virtual group information sessions to help you navigate visa & study permit renewals, co-op work permits, and post-graduate work permits (PGWP). The ISC also provides information, guidance and support on Immigration and other pathways.
The International Student Centre can guide you through the processes for renewing visas and study permits with one-on-one advising and virtual information sessions. Sign up for a session when you are ready to apply for permits, as the application will be completed in real-time during the session.
Your study permit allows you to stay in Canada as a student. If your permit expires soon, you must renew your study permit before the expiry date to maintain your legal status. Some students may also need to apply for a new Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) if they plan to travel. The International Student Centre highly recommends that students begin their study permit renewal at least 3 months before its expiration date.
Key Steps:
If you are not yet a current student, visit the Future Students International Student page for information on applying for a study permit for the first time, including the application process, required documents, and timelines.
If you are participating in a co-op or internship at the undergraduate or graduate level, you will need to apply for a Co-op Work Permit (this permit covers both co-op and internship work) in addition to your study permit. This permit allows you to gain hands-on experience as part of your program.
Key Information:
As an international student in Canada, you’re allowed to work part-time during your studies and full-time during scheduled breaks without needing a separate work permit, as long as you meet certain conditions.
You may be eligible to work on- or off-campus without a separate work permit, as long as your study permit includes a condition allowing you to work. To qualify, you must:
On-campus work allows you to work directly for SMU or certain partners located on campus.
Off-campus work is also permitted under certain conditions. Students are typically allowed to work up to the weekly limit defined by IRCC during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
If your program includes a mandatory co-op or internship component, you will need to apply for a co-op work permit in addition to your study permit before beginning the work placement.
Spouses or common-law partners of full-time international students enrolled in eligible programs may be eligible to apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada while you study.
Important Note:
IRCC regulations on working while you study in Canada may change frequently during your studies. Ensure to visit IRCC's official website for the most up-to-date information on current work as an international student policies.
The Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) allows you to work in Canada after completing your studies. This is an open work permit, meaning you can work for any employer and gain valuable Canadian experience.
Eligibility Requirements:
The length of your PGWP depends on the length of your program. A one-year program may grant a one-year PGWP, while a two-year program may grant a three-year PGWP.
More information about eligibility requirements can be found on the Government of Canada website. Work in Canada after you Graduate: Who can apply.
Group help sessions are hosted virtually and provide step-by-step guidance on application procedures, eligibility requirements and required documentation.
Before logging onto a virtual information session, students should have their passport, study permit and any relevant immigration documents readily available. To ensure you can follow the instructions, please create and login to your GCkey account before the session.
If you have questions about how to apply for study permits, entry visa, work permit, register for one of the virtual groups help sessions listed below. Have all relevant documents (such as your study permit and passport) readily available and come prepared with any questions you have to get the most out of the session.
How to apply for Study Permit extension: Extend your study permit or restore your status: About the process - Canada.ca
Register for an information session through Microsoft Bookings.
How to apply for Travel Visa (TRV): Visitor visas for workers and students: How to apply from inside Canada - Canada.ca
How to apply for Post graduate Work permit: Work in Canada after you graduate: How to apply - Canada.ca
How to apply for Coop Work Permit: Work as a co-op student or intern - Canada.ca
Register for a virtual group information session through Microsoft Bookings. You will need to enter your name, A number, and SMU email address. Only students who register for an information session will receive confirmation and invitation.
Information sessions are held on Microsoft Teams. Sign up for MS Teams with your SMU email address (name@smu.ca) and log in to the session using that account. If you reside outside of Canada, or if you have questions, contact international.centre@smu.ca.
The International Student Centre offers immigration advising appointments to help students explore immigration pathways to stay in Canada after graduation.
Understanding your immigration options is an important part of planning your future in Canada.
Nova Scotia Nominee Program ( NSNP ), prospective immigrants who have the skills and experience needed by Nova Scotia employers may be nominated.
For detailed information on these programs, visit the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Navigating immigration requirements is an essential part of studying in Canada. The International Student Centre provides advising services to help current students with general permit and visa questions.
If you have general permit and visa questions, you are invited to book a 15-minute Immigration Advising Appointment through Microsoft Bookings. This service is only offered to current registered students.
Drop-in office hours are also offered in the International Student Centre, located in the O’Donnell Hennessy Student Centre, room 305, on the third floor. Drop-in hours are hosted during the following:
For all other current student immigration support, including guided documentation application sessions, please register for one of the group information sessions listed in the Group Information Sessions schedule.